So I guess you can't check your ink levels without an internet connection.

I have had a lot of problems with HP printer drivers (mine is C7200)

Constantly checking for updates
Causes an svchost.dll failure on Vista
Printing defaults to offline for wireless printer, have to uncheck "use printer offline" to get a printout.
Driver is always using CPU time and memory
Driver warnings that need updating, but download says no update necessary.